Portable exercise devices and related methods

ABSTRACT

A portable exercise device is for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise association with a fixed support structure. A clamp includes a body having an elongated portion and at least one projecting end portion including a movable connector for securely fastening the body to the support structure. A hand grip is connected to the clamp, such as along a portion of the body, and may be movable relative thereto. The clamp may be removably fixed to the support structure for performing the pull-up exercise. The clamp may also be supported in a manner that facilitates the performance of a push-up exercise. Related methods are disclosed.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/490,226, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to the exercise arts and, more particularly, to a portable exercise device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The combination of today's frenetic pace of living combined with the current trend toward a desire for health and well-being has led to a substantial need for the ability to perform a meaningful exercise regimen while “on the go.” While various types of portable exercise devices have been proposed, all suffer from considerable bulk, cost, and complexity, which is anti-thetical to the current need. Furthermore, many such devices are arranged to allow for only one form of exercise, making it necessary to bring along multiple devices in order to perform an array of exercises.

Accordingly, a need exists for an improved portable exercise device to aid in addressing the above issues.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise association with a support structure. The device comprises a clamp including a body, which may be C-shaped and thus includes a first projecting end portion and a second projecting end portion spaced from the first projecting end portion so as to form a gap for receiving the support structure in use, at least one of said first and second end portions including a connector adapted for moving along an axis for securely fastening the C-shaped body to the support structure. A hand grip connected to the clamp extends in a direction generally aligned with the axis. The clamp may be removably fixed to the support structure for performing the pull-up exercise.

In one embodiment, the connector comprises a rod extending through an opening in the body, the rod including a pad for contacting the support structure. The connector in one particular embodiment comprises a ratchet mechanism. A second connector may be provided for use in combination with the connector for aiding in securing the clamp to the support structure. The device may further include a support for supporting the clamp in an upstanding position for aiding the subject in the performance of a push-up exercise. The support may further include a receiver for receiving the connector. In one embodiment, the receiver is non-circular in shape and the connector is a similar non-circular shape to prevent the rotation of the clamp relative to the support when mated.

The hand grip may overlie a portion of the C-shaped body of the clamp, or a portion of the C-shaped body may be spaced from and extend generally parallel to the hand grip. The device may include a recess in the body of the clamp for receiving an auxiliary exercise component. In one particular embodiment, the hand grip comprises a material softer than the body. The hand grip may also be movably mounted to the clamp, and adapted to adjust the position of the movable connector for securing the clamp to the support structure.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a portable exercise device for use by a subject in association with a door frame for performing a pull-up exercise or in association with a floor for performing a push-up exercise. The device comprises a C-shaped clamp for fastening adjacent the door frame for performing the pull-up exercise, and a support for supporting the clamp in a position for performing the push-up exercise.

In one embodiment, the C-shaped clamp includes a connector for securing the clamp adjacent to the door frame. The support may include a receiver for receiving a portion of the C-shaped clamp. The receiver and the portion of the C-shaped clamp may be formed of corresponding shapes for engaging one another so as to prevent relative rotation. The support may comprise a connector adapted for engaging a surface adjacent the door frame during the pull-up exercise.

A further aspect of the disclosure relates to a method of performing an exercise with the aid of a portable exercise device. The method comprises attaching a C-shaped clamp to a fixed support structure to aid in performing a pull-up exercise; removing the C-shaped clamp from the fixed support structure; and supporting the C-shaped clamp in an upright position for aid in performing a push-up exercise. In one embodiment, the supporting step comprises attaching the clamp to a support in a manner that prevents relative rotation of the clamp and the support. The method may further include the step of attaching a bar to the clamp prior to the removing step.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise association with a support structure. The device comprises a clamp including a first projecting end portion and a second projecting end portion spaced from the first projecting end portion so as to form a gap for receiving the support structure in use, at least one of said first and second end portions including a connector adapted for moving along an axis for securely fastening the clamp to the support structure. A hand grip os connected to the clamp, said hand grip extending in a direction generally aligned with the axis and being associated with an actuator for moving the connector along the axis for securely fastening the clamp to the support structure. Consequently, the clamp may be removably fixed to the support structure for performing the pull-up exercise.

In one embodiment, the actuator comprises a linear actuator for urging the clamp to tighten against the support structure when the hand grip is grasped during the pull-up exercise. The device may further include a base for supporting the clamp in a generally upright position for performing a push-up exercise. The base may include a receiver for receiving and holding the clamp in place, and the actuator may comprise a linear actuator for urging the clamp to tighten against the base when the hand grip is grasped during the push-up exercise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects described herein and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side view of an exercise device according to the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is side view of an exercise device fixed in a position associated with the top of a door frame;

FIG. 3 a is a side view of an exercise device engaging a support;

FIG. 3 b is a bottom view of the exercise device and support of FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 3 c is a top view of the exercise device and support of FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 4 a is a side view of a support;

FIG. 4 b is an end view of the brace;

FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of the device with two clamping means;

FIG. 6 a is a side view of a subject using the device of FIG. 5 attached to a wall adjacent a door frame for assistance with a pull-up;

FIG. 6 b is a front view of a subject using two of the devices of FIG. 5 attached to a wall adjacent a door frame for assistance with a pull-up;

FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of a device with a ratchet bar clamping means;

FIG. 8 is a side view of a device with a recess for supporting a bar for pull-ups;

FIG. 9 is a front view of a subject using two of the devices of FIG. 8 attached to a wall adjacent a door frame for assistance with a pull-up utilizing a bar between the two devices; and

FIGS. 10-16 illustrate alternate embodiments of exercise devices according to the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference is now made to FIG. 1, illustrating a portable exercise device 10 for use by a human subject (see representation of subject S in FIG. 6 a) performing an exercise using their arms. In the illustrated embodiment, the device 10 includes a clamp 11 having a generally C-shaped body. The device 10 includes a hand grip 12, which may be secured to and extend along an elongated portion of the C-shaped body, and should be sufficient in length and diameter to provide a gripping surface for a wide variety of hand sizes.

A fastener is provided for securing the clamp 11 in a fixed location. The fastener may be located at one end of the C-shaped body. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener comprises a first connector 13 corresponding to and opposing a second connector at an opposing end of the body, such as a brace 16, to form a gap G for receiving a support structure. Together, the first and second connectors extend along an axis, and the hand grip 12 extends in a longitudinal direction L generally in alignment with this axis (e.g., parallel to it), and generally in a transverse direction T relative to the end portions of the C-shaped body.

The connector 13 may be actuatable or movable relative to the body of the clamp 11 to control the relative positioning of an associated pad 15 with the connector 13 along the axis. To provide this actuation, the connector 13 may include a threaded rod 14 that extends through a threaded opening 17 in the body of the clamp 11. The threading is arranged such that rotating the rod 14, such as by using an external finger grip 18 or the like, allows for the subject to manually adjust the connector 13 to a position for fixing the clamp 10 to a support structure in combination with the brace 16.

In use, the clamping connector 13 and brace 16 may be used to secure the device 10 to a structural support 20. In practice, the device 10 may be adapted to be affixed adjacent a door frame, as shown in FIG. 2. More specifically, the pad 15 of connector 13 and brace 16 may engage opposite sides of a common wall 21 above a horizontal door frame member 22. The corresponding portal defined by the door frame, including frame member 22, thus provides a convenient location for the performance of a pull-up exercise, as shown in FIG. 6 b.

With reference to FIGS. 3 a-3 c, the exercise device 10 may also be adapted for use in performing a push-up exercise. In one embodiment, this may be achieved using a stand, such as a support 30, that may be removably attached to the clamp 11. The mode of attachment may be such that the support 30 is positioned between the connector 13 and the brace 16. This support 30 is arranged to support the body of the clamp 11 in an upright or upstanding position above a floor, including the ground, to allow a subject to perform push-ups while gripping the hand grip 12. The device 10 can thus be modified to perform two different exercises with minimal parts, effort, re-arrangement or cost.

The support 30 may be elongated in a direction X generally transverse to a direction of elongation Y of the body of the clamp 11. When connected in place, the support 30 may also be arranged to prevent relative movement with the device 10. This may be achieved using a receiver, such as a socket 31, for receiving the brace 16. The fit between the brace 16 and the socket 31 should be snug to stabilize the clamp 11.

In one particular example, the socket 31 and the brace 16 may be formed of a similar non-circular shape to prevent relative rotation between the clamp 11 and the support 30. For instance, the shape of the socket 31 and the brace 16 may be generally polygonal. In one more specific example, the socket 31 and the brace 16 are generally rectangular (see FIGS. 4 a-4 b).

The support 30 may include a pair of spaced footplates 32 for lending additional support to the device 10 when used in the course of performing a push-up exercise. These footplates 32 may be arranged for contacting the support surface underneath the device when the device is in the upstanding position. The footplate 32 may be formed of a material providing a non-skid surface, such as rubber.

In a still further embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 5, a further embodiment of an exercise device 50 is disclosed with a clamp 51 including a pair of connectors 53 a, 53 b. These connectors 53 a, 53 b work in combination to secure the device in a fixed location, such as above a door frame. As with device 10, this second embodiment of device 50 includes a hand grip 52 for interacting with the subject's hand in the performance of an exercise such as a pull-up.

The connectors 53 a, 53 b each may comprise a rod 54 that fits through an opening 57 in the body of the clamp 51. Each rod 54 may include a pad 55 for engaging a structure to aid in securing the device 50 to the structure. The rod 54 and opening 57 may be threaded to allow the subject to adjust the clamping connectors 53 a, 53 b to a desired position for fixing the clamp in place.

The clamp 51 may interact with a support 30 as described above with respect to clamp 11. In the case of a support 30 with a socket 31, one of the connectors 53 b may fit into the socket 31 for added stabilization. The connector 53 b may be of a similar non-circular shape as the socket 31 to prevent relative rotation between the clamp 51 and the support 30. For example, the connector 53 b and the socket 31 may be generally polygonal in shape, or may be generally rectangular.

FIGS. 6 a and 6 b illustrate this embodiment of the exercise device 50 in use. As with device 10 above, this device 50 may be attached to a structural support 20 for aiding the subject in performing a pull-up. The connectors 53 a, 53 b may be secured adjacent a door frame 22 during the pull-up exercise. Two devices 50 may be used in combination, one interacting with each of the subject's hands during the pull-up.

A further embodiment of a portable exercise device 70 is illustrated in FIG. 7, which includes a clamp 71 and a hand grip 72. The device 70 further includes a connector 73 and a brace 76, which together fix the clamp 71 in a stable location. The connector 73 comprises a ratchet mechanism, which includes rod 74 and teeth 79 extending therealong. The ratchet mechanism further includes a ratchet 78 for interacting with the teeth 79 and selectively fixing the rod 74 in place at a desired position. The rod 74 fits through an opening 77 in the body of the clamp 71, and may be maintained at a desired position for holding the clamp in a fixed location.

As described above with respect to clamps 11 and 51, the clamp 71 may interact with a support 30 for aiding in the performance of a push-up (not shown). In the case of a support 30 with a socket 31, the brace 76 fits into the socket 31 for added stabilization. The brace 73 may be of a similar non-circular shape as the socket 31 to prevent relative rotation between the clamp 71 and the support 30. For instance, the brace 76 and the socket 31 may be generally polygonal in shape, such as generally rectangular.

In still a further embodiment, a portable exercise device 80 as shown in FIG. 8 includes a clamp 81 with a connector 83 and a brace 86 for securing the device in a fixed location. The device 80 further includes a hand grip 82 for assisting the subject in performing an exercise such as a pull-up. The clamp 81 further includes a notch or recess 87 for optionally retaining an auxiliary implement, such as a bar 88, rope, handle, or other exercise implement, when the clamp is secured to a structural support 20.

FIG. 9 shows one possible mode of use, wherein two devices 80 are used in conjunction with the bar 88. As with previous embodiments, the device 80 may be attached to a structural support 20 such as a wall 21 adjacent a door frame 22. In this embodiment, the bar 88 is retained in the recess 87 of each device, spanning at least the distance between the devices 80. The subject may optionally grip the bar 88 rather than the hand grips 82 for aid in performing a traditional pull-up. Although not depicted, the clamp 81 may be removably connected to a support 30 as described above with respect to clamp 11 for aid in the performance of a push-up.

Turning now to FIGS. 10-15, an alternative embodiment of an exercise device 100 is shown. The device 100 of this embodiment comprises a clamp 102 having a body, which may be C-shaped. The body of the clamp 102 in turn includes a hand grip 104 spaced from and connected to the body (which thus provides the entire device with an A-shape, but the clamp body remains C-shaped). The clamp 102 is arranged for connecting with a stable support structure, such as by way of connectors 106 associated with interconnected portions 102 a, 102 b of the clamp. One of the portions, such as portion 102 a, may include a projecting leg 103 extending generally parallel to the hand grip 104, along which the connection between the portions 102 a, 102 b is formed. For example, the end of the leg 103 may be positioned in an opening O in the portion 102 b and fixed in place in a manner that allows pivoting, such as by a pinned connection.

The hand grip 104 in this embodiment is connected to the body of the clamp 102 in a manner that permits relative movement between the two structures. For example, the hand grip 104 may be pivotably connected to the body of the clamp 102 at one end, such as along portion 102 a. This may be achieved using a hand grip support 107 carrying a yoke 107 a, which in turn may be pinned to the body portion 102 to provide the relative movement between the two structures.

The body portions 102 a, 102 b of the clamp 102 may also be connected in a manner that permits relative adjustment of the spacing between the connectors 106 through actuation. For example, a linear actuator may be formed such as by using a threaded connection associated with the handgrip 104. The threaded connection in the illustrated embodiment includes a threaded connector 108 and threaded sockets 108 a, 108 b (formed in the open end of the handgrip 104 at one end and a receiver 105 associated with portion 102 b at the other).

With this arrangement, rotation of the hand grip 104 combined with the pivoting connection established between the connector 106 and the body of the clamp 102 moves the connectors 106 toward or away from each other along an axis generally parallel the axis A aligned with the gap G between the connectors 106. As should be appreciated, this adjustment, combined with the relative movement of the portions 102 a, 102 b, allows for the connectors 106 to be moved together or apart for purposes of engaging the support structure, such as opposite faces of a door frame member. The threaded connection may also be provided such that the threads are cut in a direction to oppose any tendency of the hand grip 104 to rotate during the exercise (i.e., when the hand grip 104 is grasped outwardly and urged to rotate during a pull-up exercise, the threaded connection becomes tighter to move the connectors 106 closer to each other).

As perhaps best understood with reference to FIG. 12, each connector 106 may comprise a base 110 adapted to be pivotally mounted to the body of the clamp 102. A face pad 112 may be attached to this base 110 to provide an engagement surface. However, it is possible to form each connector 106 a, 106 b from a single piece of material mounted to the body of the clamp 102 in a fixed condition.

Turning to FIG. 13, it can be understood that the relative movement of the portions 102 a, 102 b of the clamp 102 may be achieved by pivoting movement. To ensure that the desired free pivoting movement is achieved, the leg extending from portion 102 b may be provided with an elongated slot 114, such as along the leg 103, for receiving a corresponding connector, such as a pin (not shown). This slot 110 thus facilitates the desired relative movement to ensure that the full engagement of the connectors 106 with the stable support structure, such as the opposed faces of a wall above a door frame, is achieved.

The connectors 106 in this embodiment may also be adapted for engaging a support (not shown) for use in adapting the device 100 for performing a push up exercise. Alternatively, the connectors 106 and corresponding end faces 116 of the body of the clamp 102 may be adapted for engaging a generally planar surface, such as the floor or ground, or a support 118 (FIG. 15) having a base sufficient to ensure stability during the push-up exercise.

As illustrated, the support 118 may include one or more receivers 118 a for receiving corresponding portions of the device 100, such as projecting flanges extending from a foot portion at each end 116. With the body upstanding in such position, the hand grip 104 extends generally parallel to the floor or ground, ready for receiving a the hand during the pull-up exercise. Also, the receivers 118 may be arranged such that, as a result of the threaded connection formed in this embodiment, the outward grasping of the hand grip 104 during the push-up exercise creates a rotational movement that tends to move the connectors 106 apart, and thus urges the flanges into the receivers 118 a, thus ensuring a secure connection is thus maintained.

While a threaded connection is illustrated in FIGS. 10-13, it is also possible to use a different type of releasable connection, such as a spring clip to form a carabiner-style connection, between the hand grip 104 and the body of the clamp 102, as shown in FIG. 16. An actuator, such as a thumb screw 118 may be provided. A wedge arrangement 120, which permits relative vertical movement to adjust the position at least one of the connectors relative to the stable support structure. This helps to ensure a secure engagement during the pull-up exercise.

The clamp components of any of the foregoing embodiments may be fabricated of a light-weight, yet durable material, such as hard (ABS) style plastic. This allows for portability, yet provides strength for supporting the weight of the subject. For example, the material forming the body of the clamp comprises a polymer such as plastic. This conveniently would allow the exercise device to pass through airport security measures without concern for metal detectors or the like. The hand grip 12 may be made of a tubular or sleeve-like material, which may be softer than the material of the clamp body (e.g. foam rubber), so as to make it comfortable to grip while performing the exercise(s). However, the handgrip may be made of molded plastic so as to decrease production cost.

Summarizing, the disclosure is directed to the following items:

1. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise association with a support structure comprising:

-   -   a clamp including a body having a first projecting end portion         and a second projecting end portion spaced from the first         projecting end portion so as to form a gap for receiving the         support structure in use, at least one of said first and second         end portions including a connector adapted for moving along an         axis for securely fastening the body to the support structure;         and     -   a hand grip connected to the clamp, said hand grip extending in         a direction generally aligned with the axis;     -   whereby the clamp may be removably fixed to the support         structure for performing the pull-up exercise.

2. The exercise device of item 1, wherein the connector comprises a rod extending through an opening in the body, the rod including a pad for contacting the support structure.

3. The exercise device of items 1 or 2, wherein the connector comprises a ratchet mechanism.

4. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, further including a second connector for use in combination with the connector for aiding in securing the clamp to the support structure.

5. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, further including a support for supporting the clamp in an upstanding position for aiding the subject in the performance of a push-up exercise.

6. The exercise device of item 5, wherein the support further includes a receiver for receiving the connector.

7. The exercise device of item 6, wherein the receiver is non-circular in shape and the connector is a similar non-circular shape to prevent the rotation of the clamp relative to the support when mated.

8. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, wherein the hand grip overlies a portion of the body of the clamp.

9. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, further including a recess in the body of the clamp for receiving an auxiliary exercise component.

10. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, wherein the hand grip comprises a material softer than the body.

11. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, wherein the hand grip is movably mounted to the clamp.

12. The exercise device of item 11, wherein the hand grip is adapted for movement relative to the body to adjust the position of the movable connector for securing the clamp to the support structure.

13. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, wherein a portion of the body is spaced from and extends generally parallel to the hand grip.

14. The exercise device of any of the foregoing items, wherein the body is C-shaped.

15. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in association with a door frame for performing a pull-up exercise or in association with a floor for performing a push-up exercise, comprising:

-   -   a C-shaped clamp for fastening adjacent the door frame for         performing the pull-up exercise; and     -   a support for supporting the clamp in a position for performing         the push-up exercise.

16. The exercise device of item 15, wherein the C-shaped clamp includes a connector for securing the clamp adjacent to the door frame.

17. The exercise device of items 15 or 16, wherein the support includes a receiver for receiving a portion of the C-shaped clamp.

18. The exercise device of item 17, wherein the receiver and the portion of the C-shaped clamp are formed of corresponding shapes for engaging one another so as to prevent relative rotation.

19. The exercise device of any of items 15-18, wherein the support comprises a connector adapted for engaging a surface adjacent the door frame during the pull-up exercise.

20. A method of performing an exercise with the aid of a portable exercise device comprising:

-   -   attaching a C-shaped clamp to a fixed support structure to aid         in performing a pull-up exercise;     -   removing the C-shaped clamp from the fixed support structure;         and     -   supporting the C-shaped clamp in an upright position for aid in         performing a push-up exercise.

21. The method of item 20, wherein the supporting step comprises attaching the clamp to a support in a manner that prevents relative rotation of the clamp and the support.

22. The method of item 20, further including the step of attaching a bar to the clamp prior to the removing step.

23. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise association with a support structure comprising:

-   -   a clamp including a first projecting end portion and a second         projecting end portion spaced from the first projecting end         portion so as to form a gap for receiving the support structure         in use, at least one of said first and second end portions         including a connector adapted for moving along an axis for         securely fastening the clamp to the support structure; and     -   a hand grip connected to the clamp, said hand grip extending in         a direction generally aligned with the axis and being associated         with an actuator for moving the connector along the axis for         securely fastening the clamp to the support structure;     -   whereby the clamp may be removably fixed to the support         structure for performing the pull-up exercise.

24. The exercise device of claim 23, wherein the actuator comprises a threaded connection for urging the clamp to tighten against the support structure when the hand grip is grasped during the pull-up exercise.

25. The exercise device of claim 23, further including a base for supporting the clamp in a generally upright position for performing a push-up exercise.

26. The exercise device of claim 25, wherein the base includes a receiver for receiving and holding the clamp in place.

27. The exercise device of claim 26, wherein the actuator comprises a linear actuator for urging the clamp to tighten against the base when the hand grip is grasped during the push-up exercise.

The foregoing description of several aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. The embodiments described are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. For example, while the devices will typically be used in pairs, it is possible to use only one of the devices, to use different embodiments of the devices together, or to use one of the devices in associated with a different exercise device. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments described were chosen to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which it is fairly, legally, and equitably entitled. 

1. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise in association with a support structure comprising: a clamp including a C-shaped body having a first projecting end portion and a second projecting end portion spaced from the first projecting end portion so as to form a gap for receiving the support structure in use, at least one of said first and second end portions including a connector adapted for moving along an axis for securely fastening the C-shaped body to the support structure; and a hand grip connected to the clamp, said hand grip extending in a direction generally aligned with the axis; whereby the clamp may be removably fixed to the support structure for performing the pull-up exercise.
 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a rod extending through an opening in the body, the rod including a pad for contacting the support structure.
 3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a ratchet mechanism.
 4. The exercise device of claim 1, further including a second connector for use in combination with the connector for aiding in securing the clamp to the support structure.
 5. The exercise device of claim 1, further including a support for supporting the clamp in an upstanding position for aiding the subject in the performance of a push-up exercise.
 6. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the support further includes a receiver for receiving the connector.
 7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the receiver is non-circular in shape and the connector is a similar non-circular shape to prevent the rotation of the clamp relative to the support when mated.
 8. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the hand grip overlies a portion of the C-shaped body of the clamp.
 9. The exercise device of claim 1, further including a recess in the body of the clamp for receiving an auxiliary exercise component.
 10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the hand grip comprises a material softer than the body.
 11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the hand grip is movably mounted to the clamp.
 12. The exercise device of claim 11, wherein the hand grip is adapted for movement relative to the body to adjust the position of the movable connector for securing the clamp to the support structure.
 13. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein a portion of the C-shaped body is spaced from and extends generally parallel to the hand grip.
 14. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in association with a door frame for performing a pull-up exercise or in association with a floor for performing a push-up exercise, comprising: a C-shaped clamp for fastening adjacent the door frame for performing the pull-up exercise; and a support for supporting the clamp in a position for performing the push-up exercise.
 15. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the C-shaped clamp includes a connector for securing the clamp adjacent to the door frame.
 16. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the support includes a receiver for receiving a portion of the C-shaped clamp.
 17. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the receiver and the portion of the C-shaped clamp are formed of corresponding shapes for engaging one another so as to prevent relative rotation.
 18. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the support comprises a connector adapted for engaging a surface adjacent the door frame during the pull-up exercise.
 19. A method of performing an exercise with the aid of a portable exercise device comprising: attaching a C-shaped clamp to a fixed support structure to aid in performing a pull-up exercise; removing the C-shaped clamp from the fixed support structure; and supporting the C-shaped clamp in an upright position for aid in performing a push-up exercise.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the supporting step comprises attaching the clamp to a support in a manner that prevents relative rotation of the clamp and the support.
 21. The method of claim 19, further including the step of attaching a bar to the clamp prior to the removing step.
 22. A portable exercise device for use by a subject in performing at least a pull-up exercise in association with a support structure comprising: a clamp including a first projecting end portion and a second projecting end portion spaced from the first projecting end portion so as to form a gap for receiving the support structure in use, at least one of said first and second end portions including a connector adapted for moving along an axis for securely fastening the clamp to the support structure; and a hand grip connected to the clamp, said hand grip extending in a direction generally aligned with the axis and being associated with an actuator for moving the connector along the axis for securely fastening the clamp to the support structure; whereby the clamp may be removably fixed to the support structure for performing the pull-up exercise.
 23. The exercise device of claim 22, wherein the actuator comprises a threaded connection for urging the clamp to tighten against the support structure when the hand grip is grasped during the pull-up exercise.
 24. The exercise device of claim 22, further including a base for supporting the clamp in a generally upright position for performing a push-up exercise.
 25. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the base includes a receiver for receiving and holding the clamp in place.
 26. The exercise device of claim 22, wherein the actuator comprises a threaded connection for urging the clamp to tighten against the receiver of the base when the hand grip is grasped during the push-up exercise. 